A Magical Wedding Under the Stars: Tips for an Unforgettable Celebration
- Zai

- Sep 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 8
Alicia and Bennie

They first crossed paths in late summer 2010 during a casting call for a local fashion show. Bennie was auditioning as a model for clothing designers, unaware that a body painter was also selecting models for the event. He had a choice and opted to be body painted, becoming her first male body paint model. They immediately hit it off, not romantically, but through great conversation and shared interests. At the time, she was in a committed relationship, and he had just ended one, though neither of them knew this then. They didn’t see each other often afterward, but she would occasionally reach out to him for body paint gigs. They would sometimes bump into each other at poetry events or art shows. Every encounter was marked by engaging conversations that could last for hours, as if they had known each other in a previous life. They maintained this friendship for about a decade.
During those ten years, they lost touch for a while but reconnected in late summer 2020. They began spending more time together, watching movies, sharing meals, and, naturally, talking. It remained casual for a few months until they realized and acknowledged their deeper feelings for one another. Both of them had experienced relationships that weren’t ideal, but they believed those experiences prepared them for each other in many ways. This relationship felt like a dream. Neither of them imagined finding such a genuine partnership—a safe space to be themselves without judgment, filled with ease, comfort, and joy. They understood that love is a choice, and they chose each other every day, recognizing the privilege of experiencing one another and never taking it for granted.
This relationship has never felt rushed, only nurtured. Bennie proposed on the evening of March 30, 2024, the day they moved in together. It has been nearly five years since they began spending time together, and they look forward to a lifetime of enjoying each other's company, playing together, and growing more in love.
Have you ever considered having a wedding at the Planetarium? Check out this beautiful couple's day, flawlessly organized at the Discovery Museum.
Scroll below to see highlighted vendors.
Details and Vendors of the special day
Dress: Galina Signature, David’s Bridal, Orange, CT
Ceremony Venue: Discovery Museum and Planetarium - https://www.shudiscovery.org/
Email: Tbarnes@Shudiscovery.org
Reception Venue: Discovery Museum and Planetarium - https://www.shudiscovery.org/
Email: Tbarnes@Shudiscovery.org
DJ: Buddha Luv Jonz https://www.luvjonz.com
Cake: Patricia Hinds-Webb,Fete Soeurs, LLC
Catering: Fortunas Catering, Stratford, CT https://www.fortunascatering.com/
Email: Info@fortunascatering.com
Charcuteries by Sa'Ranhttps://www.bougieboxesandboards.com
Invitations: With Joy - Digital Invitationshttps://withjoy.com/alicia-and-bennie
Colors: Ivory, Dusty Sage, Champagne
Other Vendors:
Officiant/JOP: Jonnie Reboira
Email: Coachjonnierocks@icloud.com
Social: @joinedbyjonnie on all social platforms
Jewelry Design: Empty Headed Design
Email: Emptyheadeddesign@gmail.com
Website: www.emptyheaded.studio
Honeymoon Location: Eastern Caribbean Cruise, Royal Caribbean
Photography: ZaiPhotography
1. Begin Early & Develop a Vision
Start planning in advance: to ensure you can book your desired vendors and venues.
Design a vision board: to collect ideas for themes, colors, and styles that truly reflect you as a couple.
2. Define Your Budget & Guest List
Set a realistic budget: from the beginning, as this will guide your choices and help avoid overspending.
Focus your spending: on what is most important to you as a couple.
Craft your guest list: by deciding who to invite, keeping it manageable.
3. Select the Ideal Venue & Vendors
Choose a venue: that matches your vision, budget, and guest count.
Build a dependable team: of vendors, such as photographers, caterers, and planners, who understand your vision.
Meet with vendors: before committing to ensure they are the right fit for you.
4. Maintain Organization
Create a wedding timeline: to outline the schedule and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Use wedding planning tools: like apps or a detailed planner to stay organized.
Keep all contracts organized: in a central location, such as a cloud-based folder.
5. Make Your Day Personal
Add personal touches: to your wedding to make it uniquely yours.
Customize your ceremony: and reception to reflect your personalities and love story.
6. Enhance the Guest Experience
Focus on the guest experience: by ensuring they have a wonderful time.
Plan for food and drinks, as these are often a top priority for guests.
Communicate clearly: with your guests, providing them with essential information for the wedding day.
7. Preserve Your Memories
Hire an experienced photographer: and videographer to capture the special moments of your wedding day.
Prepare a list of desired formal photos: to share with your photographer beforehand.
8. Be Adaptable & Delegate
Prepare for the unexpected: by having a backup plan for various scenarios.
Assign tasks: to trusted friends, family, or your wedding party to avoid overburdening yourself.
9. Communicate with Your Partner
Maintain open and clear communication: with your partner throughout the planning process.
Make decisions together: ensuring the wedding reflects both of your personalities.
10. Enjoy the Journey
Avoid getting caught up: in the minor details and remember your purpose.
Relax and enjoy the process: as you prepare for your special day, as this is a unique and exciting time.
































































































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